The most commonly used steel plates in dump trucks are abrasion resistant (AR) plates and high manganese steel plates, depending on the load, environment, and cost considerations. Here’s a quick comparison:
1. AR400 Plates
- Used for: Dump truck floors and sidewalls
- Strength: ~400 BHN
- Benefits: Good balance between hardness and weldability
- Ideal for: Moderate impact and sliding wear in construction trucks
2. AR500 Plates
- Used for: Dump bed liners and high-impact zones
- Strength: ~500 BHN
- Benefits: Superior wear resistance
- Ideal for: Mining dumpers handling abrasive rock and ore
3. High Manganese Steel (Mn13 / X120Mn12)
- Used for: Impact-heavy areas like chute liners or rear tailgates
- Properties: Work hardens under impact, resists cracking
- Ideal for: Harsh quarry and coal dump trucks
Why These Plates?
- High abrasion resistance: Extends dump truck body life
- Structural strength: Withstands repeated heavy loads
- Compatibility: Easily cut-to-size and welded when processed properly
Pro Tip:
Many OEMs and fleet operators now use a combination—AR400 for walls, AR500 for floors, and manganese for impact zones—to optimize performance and cost.